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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 6/16/2006

Dane County’s efforts to reduce crashes involving aggressive and impaired operators of cars, motorcycles and bicycles got a boost this week when the county was awarded enforcement grants totaling more than $45,000 for five programs.

“These additional dollars will be put to good use by the Sheriff’s Department and its consistent efforts to keep our roads as safe as possible for all,” Dane County Executive Kathleen Falk said. “The work to make sure people observe traffic safety laws is a never-ending job, and we are grateful for these grants for this important task.”

The funds are coming from the State Department of Transportation’s Bureau of Transportation Safety, Safe Community Coalition of Madison and Dane County, and the city of Madison through the state transportation department. The funds will be used this year in most cases, and in some may extend into 2007 if not used in 2006.

A $25,000 state grant will be used to bolster the sheriff’s efforts to reduce the number of alcohol and other drug-related crashes. The dollars also will cover the purchase of alcohol sensor and speed detection equipment.

Another state grant of $6,000 will be for efforts to reduce the number of alcohol-related youth crashes.

A coalition safety grant of $3,410 will be used by the sheriff’s office to participate in “Project Green-Yellow-Red, Free to Ride, Free to Choose.” The program combines community education with motorcycle riding demonstrations and law enforcement – all aimed to reduce impaired motorcycle operation.

Another coalition grant of $3,300 will be used to increase law compliance among bicyclists and motorists.

And, the city of Madison through the state will provide $7,500 for intensified enforcement to reduce aggressive driving on the Beltline.